Continuous Improvement Projects: Lean Manufacturing Program ...

Lean continuous improvement projects at Bocenor improve its operational efficiency and overall outlook for future growth and profitability. ...

... "Bocenor's operating profitability improved despite lower sales, thanks to the operational and financial optimization strategy carried out in prior quarters, particularly the implementation of the Lean Manufacturing Program which considerably lowered the window and door manufacturing breakeven point, the Company’s focus on higher value-added products and less-costly-to-serve markets, the initial benefits of the recovery plan undertaken at the Ste-Marie plant in March 2006, and tight cost controls.



Management's Outlook: In recent quarters, the Company has made considerable progress in regard to the three primary objectives it has been focusing on for the past two years: improving the quality of its service, its profitability and its balance sheet. Its breakeven point has been lowered significantly thanks to the Lean Manufacturing Program, the numerous aspects of which are now being managed on a continuous improvement basis. In addition, the elimination of its long-term debt and improvement in its working capital following the sale of Multiver translated into a substantial reduction in financial expenses. In upcoming quarters, the Company's profitability should continue to be fostered by other factors, notably the recovery plan in progress at the Ste-Marie de Beauce plant, including the recent consolidation of wood preparation operations, and a further improvement in organization and operating efficiency." ...

Via Groupe Bocenor: The Company Lowers Its Breakeven Point and Intensifies Its Market Development Efforts ...